Sarah Burton Honored as WWD’s 2025 Womenswear Designer of the Year

Sarah Burton, the creative director of Givenchy, has been named the recipient of the 2025 WWD Honor for Womenswear Designer of the Year. This prestigious recognition highlights her significant contributions to the fashion industry and her recent successful transition to Givenchy, where she has established a distinct design vision following her long tenure at Alexander McQueen.

Burton’s Journey to Givenchy

Burton began her career in fashion at a young age, growing up in Cheshire, England. Her passion for clothing led her to study print fashion at Central Saint Martins, where she secured an internship with McQueen in 1996, thanks to her instructor, Simon Ungless. Over nearly three decades, she developed her skills in various areas, including menswear and accessories, ultimately becoming the creative head of McQueen after the tragic passing of the designer in 2010.

During her time at McQueen, Burton garnered a reputation for her expertise in tailoring and her ability to infuse femininity into the brand’s bold aesthetic. She maintained the house’s legacy of sharp tailoring while introducing a more delicate touch, culminating in her final collection for the spring 2024 season. In September 2024, she took the helm at Givenchy, becoming the brand’s eighth designer and only its second female couturier.

A New Era at Givenchy

Givenchy, established in 1952 and owned by LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton since 1988, has witnessed numerous design changes since the retirement of founder Hubert de Givenchy in 1995. Burton expressed her excitement about the opportunity, stating, “I love it. It’s like a breath of fresh air. It’s great to have a clean, white page.” She emphasized her connection to the brand’s legacy by exploring the archives and drawing inspiration from de Givenchy’s approach to women’s fashion.

Burton’s debut collection for Givenchy, showcased in the fall of 2025, was met with acclaim. It featured innovative silhouettes, such as dramatic hourglass coats and geometric dresses, striking a balance between youthful vibrancy and timeless sophistication. WWD noted the show’s diverse cast, emphasizing how proud the models appeared in the garments that resonated with their individual styles.

During her creative process, Burton highlighted the importance of understanding how clothing should empower the wearer. She stated, “Clothes shouldn’t overpower you. They should make you feel a certain way, and give you strength but still make you feel yourself.” This philosophy guided her in creating collections that are not only visually striking but also emotionally resonant.

Her recent sophomore show further showcased her evolving vision, incorporating a more sensual edge with sheer fabrics and bold designs. Critics praised her ability to blend expert tailoring with a modern sensibility, reaffirming her place as a leading figure in contemporary fashion.

Retail experts are optimistic about Burton’s direction at Givenchy. Bosse Myhr, director of womenswear and menswear at Selfridges, noted, “A clarity of design is clearly emerging at Givenchy.” Myhr expressed confidence that Burton’s loyal customer base from McQueen will transition to her new offerings, which have already shown promising early sales indicators.

Rickie De Sole, vice president and fashion director at Nordstrom, echoed this sentiment, pointing out that Burton’s designs encapsulate the power of simplicity while telling a woman’s story. Popular pieces, such as the new Cocoon bomber jacket worn by Cate Blanchett, have quickly become bestsellers, reinforcing the appeal of Burton’s aesthetic across a diverse age range.

As Burton continues to develop her vision for Givenchy, her recognition as the 2025 WWD Honor for Womenswear Designer of the Year marks a significant milestone in her career. With her talent and innovative approach, she is poised to shape the future of the storied fashion house, ensuring its legacy remains vibrant and relevant in the world of haute couture.